What are common symptoms of foodborne illnesses?

Common symptoms of foodborne illnesses typically include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. These symptoms arise as the body responds to harmful pathogens or toxins ingested through contaminated food or beverages. The gastrointestinal system is often the first line of defense against these invaders, leading to nausea and vomiting as the body attempts to expel the harmful substances. Diarrhea is also a defensive mechanism, as it helps to quickly eliminate irritants from the digestive tract. Abdominal pain is frequently associated with inflammation or irritation in the stomach and intestines, while fever can indicate the body’s immune response to an infection.

This set of symptoms is widely recognized as common indicators of foodborne illness, making it vital to identify and address potential sources of contamination in food preparation and handling processes to prevent outbreaks and protect public health.